Present and future of adult stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells therapy for ischemic stroke

Abstract Stroke, which is caused by an obstruction of the blood supply to the brain, is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in developed countries. Unfortunately, its incidence is increasing due to the progressive aging of the population. Despite the great effort invested in treating stroke, to this day, therapies able to promote recovery after stroke have not yet been consolidated. In this regard, studies with stem cells have shown a remarkable potential in cell replacement processes, since they are an important source of neurotrophic molecules with the ability to stimulate damaged neuronal tissue. Preclinical and clinical studies with embryonic and adult stem cells have allowed researchers to further their studies on a multitude of neurological diseases. Although further breakthroughs are yet to be made to better understand the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of stem cell therapy, results seem to point to its therapeutic advantages. Currently, the emergence of induced pluripotent stem cells as a tool for disease modeling, drug discovery, and new therapeutic targets has laid the foundation for a promising avenue in the context of personalized cell therapy alongside new opportunities for regenerative medicine, including for the treatment for stroke.